In order for the Jacksonville Jaguars to build upon what was a strong first season under Liam Coen, which players on defense are going to have to play important roles for that to happen?
We recently asked that question about the offense, highlighting three key players on that side of the ball.
Just like on offense, how the Jaguars‘ best players on defense perform will be a strong indicator of how successful this team can be in 2026. Josh Hines-Allen, Travon Walker, Travis Hunter, Foye Oluokun, and others must all play at high levels.
Every team needs its star players to perform well.
But looking beyond that group of players, which others can help elevate the ceiling of the Jaguars’ defense in 2026?
Any one of the DEs behind Hines-Allen and Walker
Whether it be Wesley Williams, Danny Striggow, BJ Green, or Zach Durfee, the Jaguars need at least one of these players to leave their mark on this season.
At a heavily rotated position like defensive end, four or even five players can see regular snaps on a weekly basis, and last season, the pass rush behind Hines-Allen and Walker was inconsistent. More steady pass rush juice is needed from the depth of this position group.
DT Ruke Orhorhoro
If Orhorhoro can have a strong season, that could do wonders for the Jacksonville defense. He has been at his best getting after the quarterback, which the Jaguars need more of from the defensive tackle position.
Generating pressure is the name of the game, not to mention that a strong interior push is one of the best ways to wreck an offensive play. Beyond filling his own column on the state sheet, a steady interior pass rush presence can benefit the other defenders on the field.
LB Ventrell Miller
Miller has big shoes to fill, taking over Devin Lloyd’s role within the defense, but if he can do so effectively, he’ll bring added stability and playmaking to the second level of the Jaguars’ defense.
The Jaguars have been very bullish about Miller stepping into this role all offseason, hence the lack of major moves at the linebacker position. Also, helping Miller step into a much more significant role will be Anthony Campanile and his defensive scheme. Not only with Lloyd, but going back to Campanile’s time in Green Bay and Miami, linebackers have often thrived under his coaching.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Why these 3 Jaguars players on defense will be vital to team success